An integral part of fighting a fire is being able to remove the heat from the building. The longer the heat stays in the building the more damage it does and the harder it is for firefighters to efficiently and safely perform required tasks.
For this reason we carry an assortment of different saws which can be used to open a hole in the roof to allow smoke and heat to vent from the building.
An other way in which smoke and heat can be ventilated from a building is by forcing clean air into the building.
This Positive Pressure Ventilation fan is made to do just that. Force clean air from outside into a building and push the smoke and heat out of one opening by filling the structure with clean air.
In addition to carrying power tools to help us fight fires we also carry an assortment of hand tools including axes and pry bars.
These are the tools which see the most use at any fire. Each and every firefighter stepping off of a fire truck is expected to be carrying a tool with them. These tools are used to gain access to a building, perform needed tasks while inside of the building and to help firefighters exit the building in an emergency situation.
Shown here are our Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
These SCBA carry breathing air, the same as around you now, compressed at 4500 pounds per square inch in their cylinders and allow firefighters to work in environments that would be inaccessible with out our own personal air supply.
Each cylinder we carry is rated for 45 minutes of working time while breathing from it.
CLEAR COMMAND SYSTEM
We have been fortunate enough that through the help of grant funding we have purchased 15 “Clear Command” radio systems.
These top of the line communication tools allow our firefighters to better communicate with those who are directing the fire.
Evolution 5200 HD -
With our current thermal imaging camera, the last of its family still working in Ross Township, nearing the end of its service life we have upgraded to the Evolution 5200 HD. This new camera affords us better graphics, heat sensors, and the ability to zoom in on an object.
Why is it so valuable?
The first mission of the Fire Department is to Protect Lives and that is the main purpose of this piece of equipment. With it we are able to “see through smoke” which allows us to better search for victims.